Item 07 - Sewer System Management Plan 2025 Update

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What is a private sanitary sewer lateral? If an inspection identifies damage to your private lateral A private sanitary sewer lateral is an underground pipe (within the public right-of-way) that warrants repairs or that is part of your home's plumbing. It conveys wastewa- replacement, please contact the City at (714) 647-3320 for ter from your home to the City's sewer system. further assistance. If your plumber provides an inspection video, the City can assist with your review of it. What is a cleanout? A cleanout is a vertical pipe from an underground lateral to the surface. If your home doesn't have a cleanout,you may want to add one near your house. Who is responsible for the maintenance of the private sewer lateral? Property owners are solely responsible for maintenance, operation, cleaning, repair and reconstruction for the entire length of the private sewer lateral from their house to the point of connection with the City's public sewer main. Does the city have a lateral assistance program? The City has established a program that, when possible, allows the City to provide assistance in the replacement or repair of severely damaged private sewer Iaterals.Where City resources are available, the program uses City crews to repair or replace the portion of your private lateral within the public right-of-way.This can be a significant cost savings to you. For more information about the City's Sewer Lateral Repair or Replacement Program please call (714) 647-3320. Who is eligible for the program? Property owners whose private sewer laterals connect to the City's sewer system are eligible for the program. How- ever,the lateral must have a cleanout to allow access for inspection equipment.The lateral must also be free of de- bris (roots, grease, etc.) that could prevent City inspection equipment access through the entire length of the lateral. What do I need to do before I ask the City for lateral assistance? Ensure that your lateral has been cleaned (or jetted) by a professional plumber. Ask your plumber to provide evi- dence that lateral was properly cleaned (i.e.CD/DVD). Why are defective laterals a problem? Broken sewer laterals can allow roots or debris into the pipe, which may cause blockages, backups, or overflows. Leaking pipes can also allow wastewater to reach ground- water, which may contribute to water pollution or cause sinkholes. Sewer laterals should be routinely maintained and inspected to assess its condition and identify the need for repairs or replacement. This is not a service provided by the City and is the homeowner's responsibility. Why is it important to keep rainwater from entering sanitary laterals? Defects and prohibited connections to private sanitary lat- erals allow rain and surface water to enter the City's sewers. This extra water increases treatment costs and may over- load the public sewer system causing overflows. Prohibited connections include roof downspouts, groundwater sump pumps, foundation drains, and drains from window wells, driveways, etc. How can I protect my property from a sewer overflow? Help protect your property and the environment by following these tips: • Routinely clear roots, grease, debris, or blockages in the lateral all the way to the connection to the sewer main. • Routinely inspect your lateral to assess its condition and identify the need for repairs or replacement. • Maintain/repair your private sewer lateral to meet current regulations and area plumbing codes. • Remove any prohibited storm water connections. • Know where your cleanout is located for quick access to clear blockages or stop backups. • Keep your cleanout cap on and in good shape.This keeps out rain and debris that can cause blockages, back-ups or overflows.